Global Language Portfolio (June 2008)

COMMUNICATION SELF ASSESSMENT AND GOAL SETTING

Date of Self-Assessment _________________________

Provisional Checklist for: Writing

Self-assessment:

Work through the checklist and note in the first of the two right-hand columns what you believe you can already do 80% of the time or more. Placing a checkmark in the first of the two columns indicates mastery of the task performed rather than occasional success. After you check off over 80% of the items for a given ACTFL level, you should progress to the next level in that same skill. Each skill is assessed separately with different levels possible in each of 5 skills. Keep going through this checklist until you reach the highest level where you checked off at least 4 of the 5 tasks. Record that level (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2) on your GLP Language Passport.

Goal setting:

Place a checkmark in the second column to identify the next set of goals you wish to reach in the future.

Language: _______________________________________	(1) I can do this easily and well.	(2) This is one of my goals.
Writing
Level A Basic User
A1
I can reproduce simple error-free sentences that I have learned previously.
I can write a simple post card or letter to friends, such as “Paris is wonderful!” or “See you soon!”
I can fill out a simple form asking personal information, such as forms for hotel registration or a new ID card.
I can write simple sentences about where I live and identify members of my family.
I can write simple phrases about everyday events, like when to meet or where we are going for dinner.
(Added specific descriptors for languages with characters or syllabaries, or for specific language attributes:
A2
I can draft e-mail messages to request information, make a hotel reservation, or order catalog items well enough to be understood by those used to receiving international requests.
I can write invitations and express thanks in simple language, using greetings and closings I have learned.
I can connect and recombine simple sentences and structures I have already learned to write a short essay or to leave a message at work.
I can describe or narrate certain professional and family activities using familiar vocabulary or structures.
I can narrate certain things that have happened in the near or distant past, especially if I have the help of a dictionary or textbook.
(Added specific descriptors for languages with characters or syllabaries, or for specific language attributes:
Level B Independent User
B1
I can summarize in simple connected sentences the research I have done for a term paper.
I can write standard letters giving or requesting detailed information, or prepare a simple cover letter and resume in response to a job announcement, as long as I have models to work from.
I can write compositions or personal letters in which I discuss general topics, explain my preferences, or give news of family and friends.
I can describe films and recount the plot of short stories and plays, using a dictionary as needed.
I can draft simple reports in my professional fields of expertise, observing accepted conventions and making few enough errors that my meaning is understood by classmates or colleagues.
(Added specific descriptors for languages with characters or syllabaries, or for specific language attributes:
B2
I can express myself with ease on a wide range of topics in my areas of personal interest and professional expertise.
I can write standard formal letters, such as conveying information or making requests, and do so in an acceptable register while using appropriate conventions.
I can write an academic essay or a professional report that requires me to develop arguments and support opinions.
I can easily synthesize information and summarize points of view and arguments found in several sources.
I can write detailed descriptions and narrations, making clear the progression from one event or description to the next in a text that is easily readable.
(Added specific descriptors for languages with characters or syllabaries, or for specific language attributes:
Level C Proficient User
C1
I can write fluently and accurately about a wide range of topics in my areas of personal interest or professional expertise, varying vocabulary and style according to content.
I can draft detailed smooth-flowing essays and formal reports using both an appropriate register and style.
I can express myself clearly, implementing various strategies to organize and develop my ideas, tailoring my writing to the intended audience.
I can elaborate my case effectively and accurately in complex formal letters, such as addressing or making complaints or responding to situations requiring tact and delicacy.
I can develop clear arguments, giving appropriate emphasis to significant points, presenting relevant supporting details, and drawing logical conclusions, as needed for a term paper or a report.
(Added specific descriptors for languages with characters or syllabaries, or for specific language attributes:
C2
I can express myself easily in a style adapted to almost any audience and in a manner appropriate to the content of the text.
I can easily draft complex pieces of correspondence, journal articles, and work-related reports.
I can provide and tailor an effective and logical structure for my writing in order to help the reader to find significant points.
I can easily give a critical appreciation of business proposals or literary works, articulating my arguments effectively and accurately using a full range of grammatical structures.
I can utilize idiomatic and colloquial expressions as well as technical jargon in my area of specialty, tailoring language to express fine distinctions of meaning.
(Added specific descriptors for languages with characters or syllabaries, or for specific language attributes: